My first post for 2015. Happy new year to you. I’m writing from New York, a last minute trip that came about due to JB’s work and luckily my schedule allowed me to join him. It’s really the best of both worlds as I get to wander the streets during the day, stopping for coffee (and a break from the bitter cold) at places I have found on Trotter, before joining JB for dinner and our chosen evening activity. Perhaps I don’t sound like the most exciting traveller but I’m keeping a similar schedule to the one I have in Paris. Instead of being in the office for eight hours however, I’m outside wandering the city and connecting with people (thank you Instagram).
The year 2015 got off to a horrible start for Paris, with a terrorist attack on the Charlie Hebdo office that resulted in 12 deaths. Two days later I flew to New York, leaving Paris behind in a state of absolute shock and sadness. I am still gathering my thoughts on this horrible event so am not quite ready to put things down in writing, although I hope to at some point. The one thing I will say now is how overwhelmed and touched I was to see the Parisians, and France, unite immediately both on social media and in person. A vigil was held the very same night of the shootings at Place de la République, an incredibly fitting symbol, to honour those who lost their lives.
Coming to New York was comforting for me: yes, I felt guilty leaving my friends behind in Paris but being with JB was very important to me. I'm revisiting old haunts (Strala Yoga studio, Central Park and New York Public Library) whilst discovering new places (the West Village neighbourhood, new coffee shops and Brooklyn Botanical gardens). Instagram has been a wonderful source for useful addresses and making connections with people based in New York, something which has given me much food for thought and left me feeling inspired. One of my aims when I return to Paris will be to maintain the excitement for collaboration and creativity that this city just seems to burst with. Setting myself lots of resolutions that will not ultimately be achieved doesn’t appeal to me (been there, done that and failed at it multiple times) but I’m positive for 2015 and have big hopes. I’m also going to try and be more thoughtful with my actions and words. How about you?
Lou x